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Unique ageing project

A creative multi-media, evidence-based resource produced by La Trobe University aims to change community perceptions of ageing and in doing so, inform a positive ageing agenda with a focus on person-centred services.

La Trobe
researcher, Dr Kayli Wild said film is a powerful medium to improve
understanding for the community, health professionals and policy makers of issues
unique to old people.

'Many of
those who shared their stories spoke about gaining increased wisdom,
confidence, tolerance and self-expression. They also talked about what is
important for ageing well. We hope this research contributes to a broader understanding of what it is actually
like to grow old and prompts positive changes in the way the ageing sector
operates' Dr. Wild said.

'What
older men and women across the country told us was often at odds with what many
associate with ageing – It's not all about illness, decline, doom and gloom.

Researchers
interviewed and filmed 56 people. Clear themes of not wanting to be a burden on
family or society and wanting to continue to contribute, featured in many of
the interviews.

The
Experiences of Ageing study and films can be found on the new website

Healthdirect
Australia's General Manager of Clinical Governance, Maureen Robinson, said the
organisation was proud to commission the study.

'This research fills an important gap in our
knowledge on the lived experience of ageing. Healthtalkonline provides a
valuable resource for the ageing population, their families, friends and health
professionals involved in their care.'

The ageing
study is the first of the site's projects to include interviews with Indigenous
Australians in their first language.